On February 12, Captain America: The New World Order received its initial wave of reviews from critics, presenting a divided reception that ranged from enthusiastic praise to measured criticism. While many lauded the high-octane action sequences, compelling performances, and impressive Red Hulk visuals, others found the narrative lacking deeper thematic exploration. Here's an in-depth analysis of this ambitious yet imperfect new chapter in the MCU.
Table of Content
- A New Era for Captain America
- Key Strengths and Weaknesses
- Plot Summary Without Spoilers
- Conclusion
- Positive Aspects
- Negative Aspects
A New Era for Captain America
Since Steve Rogers passed the shield to Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) in Avengers: Endgame, fans have debated whether Bucky Barnes might have been the better successor. Both characters previously assumed the mantle in Marvel comics, making Sam's selection canonically valid. Marvel Studios addressed fan concerns through The Falcon and The Winter Soldier, establishing Sam and Bucky as close allies while depicting Sam's gradual embrace of his new identity. Though initially burdened by self-doubt, Sam eventually accepts becoming Captain America despite the complexities of representing a nation that hasn't always represented him.
The New World Order combines signature elements from Steve Rogers' trilogy - wartime adventures, espionage intrigue, and global exploration - with Sam Wilson's fresh perspective. The film introduces Joaquin Torres (Danny Ramirez) as Sam's new partner, suffers from familiar CGI limitations, and kicks off with Marvel's trademark explosive opening sequence.
Sam Wilson differs fundamentally from Steve Rogers, yet the film attempts to shape him into a similar archetype. His dialogue often echoes Rogers', and his demeanor remains consistently serious except during aerial combat and playful banter with allies. While some claim the movie lacks humor, there are lighthearted exchanges with Torres and witty one-liners during tense moments. This restrained approach to comedy better serves Sam's character evolution than the overt gags seen elsewhere in the MCU.
Key Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Action Sequences: The film delivers exhilarating fight scenes, particularly those featuring the visually striking Red Hulk.
- Performances: Anthony Mackie brings charisma and physical prowess to Sam Wilson, while Harrison Ford lends gravitas as Secretary Ross.
- Supporting Cast: Danny Ramirez energizes the dynamic as Joaquin Torres, and the primary antagonist will excite longtime Marvel enthusiasts.
Weaknesses:
- Script Issues: The writing suffers from shallow character development and inconsistencies in Sam's capabilities against the Red Hulk.
- Predictable Plot: Despite an intriguing setup, the story ultimately falls back on recycled tropes from prior Captain America installments.
- Underdeveloped Characters: Sam feels less nuanced than Steve Rogers, and the villain fails to leave a lasting impression.
Plot Summary Without Spoilers
Set in a world still recovering from Eternals' events, The New World Order finds Thaddeus Ross (Harrison Ford) now serving as U.S. President. With Tiamut's immense celestial corpse protruding from the ocean - its adamantium-laced body both a hazard and potential resource - global tensions escalate.
Ross recruits Sam Wilson to form a new Avengers team and secure these valuable materials. However, an assassination attempt on the president reveals a shadowy antagonist orchestrating events from behind the scenes. The ensuing globe-trotting adventure blends spycraft, treachery, and high-stakes combat.
Despite its promising foundation, the film falters with questionable scripting decisions. Pivotal moments feel contrived, from Sam's abrupt costume upgrades to his unlikely competence against the Red Hulk in their climactic confrontation.
Conclusion
While Captain America: The New World Order has notable flaws, it remains an entertaining spy-action hybrid suitable for casual viewers. Strong cinematography, surprising twists, and standout performances compensate for narrative weaknesses. A post-credits scene teases future Marvel developments, maintaining fan anticipation.
Can Sam Wilson truly fill Steve Rogers' shoes? Only future installments will tell, but for now, The New World Order serves as a serviceable - if uneven - addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Positive Aspects
Critics widely praised the film's action choreography, particularly Red Hulk's visually stunning sequences. Anthony Mackie brought engaging physicality to Sam Wilson, while Harrison Ford delivered a nuanced performance as Secretary Ross. The visual effects, especially Red Hulk's CGI realization, stood out as technical achievements. The camaraderie between Mackie and Danny Ramirez provided welcome comic relief within the film's darker tone.
Negative Aspects
Most critiques focused on the screenplay's lack of depth in both character development and emotional resonance. Many found the plot's trajectory overly familiar, recycling narrative beats from earlier Captain America films. Sam Wilson's characterization seemed underdeveloped compared to Steve Rogers' complexity, and the primary antagonist left little lasting impact. Pacing inconsistencies further undermined the film's potential. Ultimately, while The New World Order delivers spectacle, it misses opportunities for more substantive storytelling.
